The CAIU employs 5 Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVI), two of whom are also dually certified as Orientation and Mobility Specialists. The staff serves 150 - 200 students each year with an annual average of 70 additional students assessed for service.

Referral Assessment

Assessment is available to determine eligibility for enrollment as a student with blindness or visual impairment.

Assessments are conducted for students ages 3 - 21

Acquisition of an eye specialist report

Determination of the appropriate reading medium, including a learning media assessment (LMA)

Consultation with current teaching staff

Consultation with students and parents

Written report including sources of information and recommendations

Screenings

Kindergarten registration screening, conducted on-site according to the district’s schedule, using state health standards

Assistance with mandated nurse's vision screenings for students who are difficult to test

Reports provided to school nurses to be included in annual health records

To determine need for additional assessment

Individual Instruction

Braille reading and writing with integration of Braille into the curriculum using the appropriate Braille code, including literary, math, music, foreign language, and computer

Adapted materials for tactile or visual learners

Expanded Core Curriculum for Visually Impaired Students that includes any of the following: Independent Living, Recreation & Leisure, Self-determination, Transition to Adult Life, Social Interaction, Technology, Visual Efficiency, and use of Compensatory Skills due to limited vision

High and low technology and/or adapted software

Use of adapted materials for tactile or visual learners

Ongoing Learning Media Assessment

Provision of unique classroom supplies and equipment for short-term use

Temporary loan of recommended equipment, technology, and/or software

Materials Preparation

Advance material adaptations per needs of the student for participation in any curriculum; hardware and/or software modifications, and PSSA/PASA coordination and administration.

Acquisition of all materials within a 5-day turn-around, including audio, large print, Braille, tests, quizzes, books, and/or worksheets, to meet the requirements of the law

Support to School Personnel/Consultation

Consultation with IEP teams regarding special needs for visually impaired

Advance planning and supports to maximize participation in appropriate curricula and transition planning